Easter Sunday Summit of Cucamonga Peak

Summited Cucamonga peak on Easter Morning. One of my long time favorite hikes in the area. Got started at 6:15am and finished up around 2:00pm. Even with the holiday, the parking lot was mostly full by 6:00am.

Lower section of the trail is washed out in places between the 1 and 2 mile marker and the trail can be re-routed at times so check your maps. The middle section up to the saddle is wonderful as always and the spring is flowing strong near the trail just before the switchbacks.

Had some nice conversations with the people already at the saddle while taking a break. I love our local hiking community!

First mile past the saddle there are some spots with washouts, a downed tree, and rock slides, not too much snow (if at all). It’s 99% clear by now. Slow going in places to ensure good footing but nothing crazy.

Past the minor saddle up to the peak on the switchbacks there is still some big patches of icy snow within the last 3/4 mile to the peak. There are nice footholds created by folks from trekking through it so I was able to navigate the ice patches without spikes but definitely needed poles. Make sure to check your maps here too since lots of people have been cutting the switchbacks either to cheat the mileage or avoid the snow so double check you’re going the right direction.

Wonderful views from the top as always and I had the peak mostly to myself. Started to get busier the longer I stayed. Getting back down was a little sketchy in some spots (had some slips) but overall was okay due to having poles. Be careful and have fun!